Ditching Dread: Recovering From Substance-Induced Anxiety Disorder

In many cases, the root cause of substance use can be defined with one word — relief. 

Be it alcohol, an illegal substance, or prescription medication, substance use serves as a source of respite from conditions of our minds, bodies, or the outside world.

Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon that the very substance many turn to for relief from such ailments can actually make things worse by triggering substance-induced anxiety disorder.

What starts as a way to escape discomfort quickly becomes the source of even deeper distress.

Understanding how and why this happens is not only key to healing but also to preventing the cycle from repeating.

In this article, we explore what substance-induced anxiety disorder is, what causes it, and how it can be effectively treated.

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Table of Contents

• What Is Substance-Induced Anxiety Disorder?
• How Can Substance Abuse Cause Anxiety?
• 5 Substances Most Likely To Cause Substance-Induced Anxiety Disorder?
• Treatment for Substance-Induced Anxiety Disorder
• Clear Steps Recovery: Helping You Find Freedom From Substance-Induced Anxiety Disorder

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Substance-Induced anxiety disorder (SIAD) is a mental health anxiety disorder characterized by nervousness, restlessness, or panic associated with the use of or withdrawal from various substances, including:

• Alcohol
• Prescription medications
• Caffeine
• Nicotine
• Illegal substances, 
• Sedatives
• Stimulants
• Toxins 

SIAD differs from general anxiety disorder, as the anxiety symptoms usually occur during or after substance intoxication or withdrawal. However, it is still considered a psychiatric illness and requires medical treatment. 

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Substance-Induced Anxiety Disorder?

Symptoms of substance-induced anxiety disorder can vary depending on the person and substance involved. 

Most common symptoms of SIAD may include:

• Worry or fear
• Intrusive thoughts
• Decreased ability to focus or concentrate
• Irritability
• Sleep disturbances
• Body tension
• Stomach and digestive issues
• Nausea
• High blood pressure
• Increased heart rate
• Sweating and shaking
• Dizziness
• Hot flashes
• Chills

If you fear you may be experiencing substance-induced anxiety disorder, you’re not alone. At Clear Steps Recovery, we understand that the road to recovery is complex. That’s why we offer medication-assisted treatment services to support related drug and alcohol use disorders. Contact us to learn how we can help you.

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Studies have found anxiety and substance abuse to be closely related. 

Some substances can cause anxiety by affecting the parts of the brain that correspond to stress. They cue the brain to increase stress hormones, which also encourages dependency, making the substances addictive while also facilitating anxiety disorders. 

Other substances may cause anxiety during withdrawal, as the body has learned to rely on the substance to function.

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While the exact cause of SIAD isn’t known, substance-induced anxiety disorder can be triggered by any medication or legal substance, in addition to illegal substances. 

These 5 substances are most likely to trigger substance-induced anxiety due to their effect on the chemicals in your brain, which manage how you think, feel, and act. Exposure to these substances can change your brain chemistry and prompt symptoms of anxiety in your mind and body.

#1: Alcohol

A study found that a large proportion of people who misuse alcohol also have co-occurring anxiety disorders. Alcohol is an unhealthy coping tool, as it may only temporarily reduce symptoms of anxiety. 

This is in part due to alcohol’s effect on the amygdala, the area of your brain that regulates negative emotions. Brain imaging studies have found abnormalities in amygdala functioning in individuals with alcohol use disorder.

Alcohol has also been found to cause anxiety and worsen pre-existing anxiety, especially in withdrawal.

This becomes a vicious cycle as the unhealthy coping mechanism for anxiety symptoms increases alcohol tolerance and dependence. The body then requires more alcohol to produce the same effect. Once alcohol is reduced or removed, it can create new symptoms of anxiety, resulting in the need to drink again.

#2: Caffeine

Several studies have discovered a link between caffeine and anxiety. Caffeine produces a psychostimulant effect on the central nervous system through three different mechanisms of action. One of these is by blocking adenosine receptors, creating an increase in dopamine, noradrenalin, and glutamate, which increases blood pressure and heart rate.

Consuming too much caffeine can easily lead to symptoms of anxiety, including restlessness, feelings of uneasiness, and rapid heartbeat. Additionally, studies have found that while some may experience symptoms similar to anxiety, individuals who have an increased risk of anxiety disorders may be more susceptible to developing a formal anxiety disorder due to caffeine’s effect on the adenosine receptor genes.

Symptoms of caffeine-induced anxiety may overlap with typical symptoms of anxiety, which can worsen with the use of caffeine.

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#3: Cannabis

Cannabis contains a psychoactive component called THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which, in low doses, can produce feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and sociability. 

Many studies have shown that certain individuals who use cannabis have higher rates of psychiatric disorders, including anxiety disorders and schizophrenia. It’s been noted that some may be using cannabis to relieve their symptoms, and studies have found that higher cannabis use is linked with worsened symptoms.

A 2013 review found that THC may cause short- and long-term psychological disorders in some users, including cognitive impairment, anxiety, and increased risks of psychosis. Key predisposing variables like age of first exposure, frequency of use, the potency of the cannabis used, and individual susceptibility were noted as determining factors.

Another 2013 study concluded that long-term cannabis use increases the risk of psychosis in people with certain vulnerabilities, but does not cause psychosis. Key predisposing factors included genetic liability, childhood trauma, and upbringing.

In 2016, a meta-analysis linked daily cannabis use with a four-times higher risk of psychosis, though the analysis was not adequate to establish a causal link.

Controversial as it may be, more research is required since observational studies suggest a correlation, but do not establish any causative effect of cannabis on long-term psychiatric health. 

#4: Illegal Drugs

Many illegal drugs can trigger substance-induced anxiety disorder. 

Stimulants, hallucinogens, and opioids all affect the central nervous system, impacting neurotransmitters, increasing the release of dopamine and serotonin. The increased levels can promote feelings of euphoria, excitement, and increased energy, but they can also lead to heightened levels of anxiety. 

For example, a stimulant like cocaine increases heart rate and blood pressure, which can exacerbate anxiety symptoms and induce panic attacks in some. Even in withdrawal, cocaine can create severe anxiety. Long-term cocaine use has also been reported to cause changes in brain chemistry, which can contribute to the development of anxiety and other psychiatric disorders. 

Cocaine can also trigger feelings of anxiety, depression, and irritability during initial withdrawal, referred to as the “crash.”

A 2013 study found that LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) may catalyze psychiatric disorders in predisposed individuals, although it does not tend to induce illness in emotionally healthy people.

Though other hallucinogens like MDMA (methylenedioxymethamphetamine or ecstasy) trigger a massive serotonin release, which leads to a “neurochemical depletion,” later resulting in anxiety, particularly during the crash. One case reports a patient who developed intense anxiety and panic symptoms after a single dose. He was ultimately diagnosed with substance-induced anxiety disorder. 

#5: Prescribed Medicines

Anxiety is a possible side effect of many prescription medications, especially:

• Antidepressants
• Benzodiazepine
• Corticosteroids
• Hormonal contraceptives
• ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) medication
• Beta blockers

Many of these prescription medications intentionally alter neural pathways. However, through biochemical dysregulation, overstimulation, withdrawal, or a paradoxical central nervous system effect, they can trigger anxiety or lead to substance-induced anxiety disorder.

It’s important to discuss the side effects of any prescription medication with your doctor, monitor yourself closely for the symptoms of anxiety, and inform your doctor immediately if you are experiencing such symptoms.

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Substance-induced anxiety disorder is multifaceted and requires a client-centered, holistic treatment. A multi-step approach is necessary to ensure effective treatment and supportive care, including:

• Medically supervised detoxification is generally the first step to safely rid the body of the harmful substance. With medical supervision, withdrawal symptoms can be monitored to avoid severe, potentially dangerous situations. 
• Pharmacological treatment is often prescribed to help alleviate withdrawal symptoms and minimize cravings.
• Psychotherapy plays a key role in addressing the underlying factors that contributed to the substance use and helps identify new, healthier coping mechanisms. Through various mental health treatment programs, individuals can learn practical skills to manage mental health challenges and improve daily life. 
• Lifestyle changes are key, including improving diet, exercise, sleep, and social support, aid treatment by stabilizing brain chemistry, improving emotional regulation, and reducing the risk of relapse.

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Substance-induced anxiety disorder can be difficult to navigate. At Clear Steps Recovery, we offer individually tailored medication-assisted treatment that utilizes FDA-approved medications to target withdrawal symptoms, cravings, and the risk of relapse. 

Our approach combines medication-assisted treatment with counseling, behavioral therapy, and other support services to provide a comprehensive approach to treating addiction.

You can live a fulfilling life in recovery, and we’re here to help you every step of the way. Our compassionate team of addiction treatment professionals is experienced in treating substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. 

Let us help you find your path to addiction recovery at Clear Steps Recovery.

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The content in this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.